Thinning direct planted seedlings

[caligrown]

I have never planted herbs from seeds before. I just planted basil, cilantro, and oregano about a week ago. I am silly and didn't read much into it other than what it said on the back of the seed package so I just put a little pile of seeds about 1/4 inch in the dirt. Well now my basil is popping up and WAY to many of them sprouted. I know I need to thin it out but just not sure when, how or how much to leave behind.

Here is a photo of one of the plots. I have them all planted in cinder blocks if that makes any difference.
https://instagram.com/p/bCQOBXh7BQ/

[caligrown]

And I apologize if this is in the wrong section.

[rainbowgardener]

MG is right. Helps to water a bit first, then the extras will pull easily. And I would get all that wood chippy stuff away from them. You never want mulch touching your plants. Mulch is fine, just leave a space between it and your plants.